(Photo courtesy of AIM)
Kenya (MNN) ― Two families and AIM Air are grieving the deaths of missionary pilot Frank Toews and mechanic Ryan Williams.
Toews died on impact in a plane crash in Nairobi on August 1. Williams succumbed to his injuries several days later. Each leaves behind a wife and four children.
"The families are finding God's grace to sustain them, and finding comfort and peace," said Ted Barnett of Africa Inland Mission. "But at the same time, it's a time of terrible loss and tragedy for them, and so we appreciate each person remembering them in their prayers."
A memorial fund has been set up for each family. The project number for Frank Toews is 099096, and the number for Ryan Williams is 099097.
"Both of these funds are set up, first of all, to defray the huge expenses that surround events like this. And then if there's anything left over, the widows of each of these men will appoint the remainder of these funds for an AIM project that they are interested in," Barnett said.
AIM Air pilots and planes remain grounded at this time. AIM staff are busy gathering around the families and supporting each other through the loss. A memorial service was held for Toews on Tuesday. Plans are in process to hold a service for Williams.
"It's a real blow to all of those who work in AIM Air," Barnett said. "And it brings a lot of opportunity for grieving and for casting ourselves on the Lord for His grace and mercy to sustain us in this difficult time."
The cause of the accident is under investigation. In the next several days, AIM hopes to have a report from a team of professional investigators.
Pray for the future of the ministry. "AIM is established to make Christ-centered churches among all African peoples," Barnett said. "So we have a very clear purpose from Scripture, and we will not be deterred. In fact, I'm sure that Frank and Ryan would want us to redouble our efforts to get the Gospel out, to make sure that their lives were not spent in vain."
